Cheesy taco casserole

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to Medium
Intensity: Bold, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing

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Introduction

When you combine the comforting heartiness of a casserole with the bold, zesty flavors of tacos, you get a dish that’s bound to become a weeknight favorite — Cheesy Taco Casserole.

It’s everything you love about taco night — savory beef, warm spices, melty cheese, and crunchy toppings — all baked together in one delicious pan. This recipe is hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to customize. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or cooking for a game-day crowd, this casserole brings all the fun and flavor with none of the fuss.

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Ingredients

For the beef filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 ½ pounds (680 g) ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (1 oz / 28 g) packet taco seasoning mix or homemade blend (see below)

• 1 (10 oz / 284 g) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)

• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the creamy layer:

• 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangier version)

• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened

• ½ teaspoon cumin

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

For the topping:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• 3 cups crushed tortilla chips or taco shells

Optional garnishes:

• Chopped tomatoes

• Diced avocado

• Fresh cilantro

• Sliced green onions

• Jalapeño slices

• Hot sauce or salsa

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Homemade Taco Seasoning (optional):

Mix together:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon oregano

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Pinch of cayenne (optional for spice)

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Equipment Needed

• Large skillet

• Mixing bowls

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture (10–12 minutes)

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink — about 5–7 minutes.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Stir in taco seasoning and mix well to coat the meat evenly. Add diced tomatoes with chilies, black beans, and corn. Stir everything together, simmering for about 3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Creamy Layer (5 minutes)

In a medium mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, cumin, and chili powder. Mix until smooth and well blended. This layer adds a creamy tang that balances the spiced meat beautifully.

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Step 3: Assemble the Casserole (10 minutes)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

1. Bottom layer: Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom of the dish.

2. Beef layer: Spoon the seasoned beef mixture on top of the chips, spreading it evenly.

3. Creamy layer: Dollop the cream cheese-sour cream mixture on top and spread gently.

4. Cheese layer: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the entire dish.

5. Final crunch: Add the remaining tortilla chips on top for a crispy finish (optional, if you like a crunchier texture).

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Step 4: Bake the Casserole (20–25 minutes)

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.

If you prefer an extra crispy top, broil on high for an additional 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

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Step 5: Rest and Serve (5 minutes)

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving — this helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Garnish with your favorite toppings like fresh tomatoes, cilantro, avocado, and jalapeños. Serve hot with a side of salsa, guacamole, or even a fresh green salad.

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Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Taco Casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs perfectly with:

• Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice

• Refried beans

• Cornbread or warm flour tortillas

• Fresh salad with lime dressing

For extra fun, serve it family-style with a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own plate.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze portions (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used.

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Intensity and Cooking Notes

• Flavor intensity: Bold, savory, and perfectly cheesy — a classic taco flavor in casserole form.

• Effort intensity: Moderate — the steps are straightforward, but layering and baking take some time.

• Time intensity: Medium — under one hour total, making it ideal for weeknights or potlucks.

This casserole is a symphony of textures and tastes — creamy, crunchy, cheesy, and hearty all at once. It’s comfort food with a festive twist, and it hits that perfect balance of indulgent yet family-friendly.

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Chef’s Tips and Variations

• Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the beef mixture.

• Lighter version: Use ground turkey or chicken and reduced-fat cheese.

• Vegetarian option: Replace beef with plant-based crumbles or a mix of black beans and lentils.

• Add rice: For a heartier version, stir 1 cup of cooked rice into the beef mixture before layering.

• Make-ahead option: Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

• Extra topping idea: Add crushed Doritos or spicy tortilla chips on top before baking for a fun crunch.

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Common Questions

Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Colby Jack, pepper jack, or Mexican blend cheeses work wonderfully.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely — this casserole doubles easily for large gatherings. Just use a larger pan or two standard 9×13 dishes.

How do I make it creamier?
Add an extra 2 ounces of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream to the beef mixture before layering.

What if I don’t have tortilla chips?
Crushed taco shells or even cooked pasta can work as a base for a creative twist.

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Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Taco Casserole is the ultimate comfort food fusion — all the flavors of taco night baked into a bubbling, golden, cheesy masterpiece. It’s family-friendly, quick enough for weeknights, and endlessly customizable for any taste or dietary preference.

Every bite delivers a perfect mix of spice, creaminess, and crunch that keeps you coming back for seconds. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday, game day, or just a cozy evening at home, this dish guarantees smiles all around the table.

So preheat that oven, grab your favorite cheese, and get ready to make a casserole that brings the fiesta to your kitchen! 🌮🧀